James Radocha

James Radocha, age 98, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2022. James was born May 24, 1924 to John and Mary Radocha of Chicago, Illinois.  James was a veteran of World War II.  He was too young to join at the start of the war with his brother John, so he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps.  He helped to build Lincoln’s New Salem and when he was old enough served as an Army Medic in a field Hospital.  Originally trained for the Mountain Division, plans were changed for the invasion of Europe.  James became a prisoner of war during the Battle of the Bulge and later was a proud member of Friends of Stalag IVB, ex POW Association.

When James returned home from the service, he found work at Ceco Steel in Cicero, Illinois, where he met his wife Katherina.  He was a long time resident of Brookfield, Illinois and retired from the Brookfield Public Works Department.

James enjoyed hunting and fishing in Wisconsin with his friends, listening to music and old time radio programs, riding his bike, taking pictures everywhere he went, telling the stories of his life, and playing with his grandchildren and great grandchildren (even the furry ones).

James is the beloved husband of Katherina Radocha, loving father of  David Radocha, Laura (Pete) Hirt, Edward (Michele) Radocha and the late James J. Radocha.  He is the adored grandfather of Melissa (Nate) McFeters and Emily Radocha.  Great Grandfather of Kaitlyn, Lily, Jace and Owen, fond uncle to many nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters John (Millie) Radocha, Edward Radocha, Millie (Joseph) Iorio, and Dorothy (James) Kman.